Highlanders' Ioane staying at home

Highlanders flank TJ Ioane has been ruled out of his team's two-match tour of South Africa due to a calf strain.

Highlanders flank TJ Ioane has been ruled out of his team's two-match tour of South Africa due to a calf strain.

The explosive loose forward has been sidelined for the two home wins against the Rebels and Bulls, and has since been ruled out of their South African trip which features clashes against the Stormers and Sharks.

Also missing from the 27-strong squad is veteran lock Brad Thorn, who suffered a season-ending bicep injury against the Bulls on Friday.